Mold in Abandoned Flood Houses Concerns

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In one part of Luzerne County hit hard by the September floods, some people who have returned to their neighborhood are growing concerned about a growing problem, mold.

Dozens of homes in Duryea were flooded six months ago, and many people never even came back. Some sold their homes, other simply abandoned them.

Gertrude Yachna came back. Vice President Joe Biden personally promised her help would come and it did.

"After we came back home here it's lifting our spirits back home to see look, it could have been done and we are thankful for that we were able to get in," said Yachna.

She said she has been back in her home since late January but now what is concerning her is an empty house next door. Black mold is growing up and down the walls inside.

"It`s right next to you. There is mold in there. And nothing is done. And I mean if you let it go further and further you`re going to get more mold than you will be able to get rid of," added Yachna.

Those concerns are echoed by Gene Madrak who lives across the street.

"I have a heart condition and that's it. I don't know what to do about it. We went to the council and it seems like they are not doing anything about it," said Madrak.

The Duryea borough manager said officials are waiting until the end of winter to see who comes back and who doesn't. Then it will be up to council and the building inspector to decide what will happen to the empty houses.